Left your holiday plans to the last minute? Don’t worry as you can still embark on the perfect summer holiday in the Greek islands.

With so many exciting destinations to choose from, you’ll have the chance to experience timeless natural beauty, ancient history and cultures, delectable dining and exhilarating adventure activities all in one go. These islands are a convenient short-haul flight away, meaning you can be enjoying the luxury and excitement of a Greece holiday within hours of taking off. Perfect for families seeking serenity and fun, couples who want romance and friends looking for an epic party, each island promises something for everyone. Cruise across the Mediterranean, Aegean or Ionian Seas on a once-in-a-lifetime boat trip, catching the sun as it sets over the waters, explore legendary sites from ancient times or relax in your hotel, being waited upon hand and foot. The only question is: where’s best for you?

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Stunning Beaches

A last-minute summer holiday to the Greek islands means the promise of indescribable beaches to lounge on, whiling away the hours as you soak up the sun. Corfu is regarded as one of the greenest, most verdant Greek destinations, with stunning scenery surrounding its powdery shorelines. Agios Gordios is the most popular spot on this island thanks to its picturesque rock formations and local amenities. Escape to Zante’s Banana Beach if you’re looking to blend island luxury with party vibes as it's conveniently located next to numerous booming bars. For a more tranquil beach experience, we’d recommend you visit Rhodes’ Traganou Beach, as it’s less crowded and boasts caves that are perfect for exploring, as well as crystal-clear waters. For unrivalled natural beauty, Falassarna Beach in Crete should be your number one choice, as it has been regularly voted among the top 10 most beautiful beaches in Europe.

Activities Galore

Seek adventure on your Greece summer holiday, with lots of activities and attractions on offer across these wondrous islands. Beach holidays are synonymous with water sports and you can have your fill of aquatic fun, especially on a Kos holiday. Kefalos Beach and Marmari Beach are superb coastal spots to enjoy some jet skiing, water skiing, windsurfing, snorkelling, banana boating and more. If the thrill of splashing down a slide is more your thing, Faliraki Waterpark, in Rhodes, promises fun for all the family with multiple chutes and rides, as well as bars and eateries. Admire the unspoilt views of lush mountains while you enjoy a magical wine tasting experience and vineyard tour during a sensational holiday in Kefalonia or dance till dawn in Zante Town and Tsilivi, in Zante.

History and Culture

Every Greek island is bursting with a unique and rich history, as well as a deep-rooted heritage that prioritises a laid-back approach to life. For culture-lovers, there’s no better place than the mythical islands of Greece, and a holiday to Crete will reveal to you the Ideon Cave. Located on Mount Ida, this is said to be the birthplace of Zeus, and is perfect for a summer escapade as it’s only open between July and November. Visit Corfu this summer and explore Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features palaces, fortresses, ancient squares and monuments. Corfu is also home to the Achilleion Palace, a 19th-century structure that was built for the Austrian Empress, Sissi. A last minute holiday is also a superb time to experience the many summer festivals held across the islands, including Santorini’s jazz festivals, Carnival Time in Zante and Kos’ Hippocratia cultural celebration.

Delicious Food

Expect delicious bread, olive oil, feta, baklava and wine on your summer escape – this is Greece, after all – but you’ll be surprised to find an array of mouthwatering dishes exclusive to each island that will tickle your tastebuds. Holidays in Santorini give you the chance to sample its famous salad that features locally grown tomatoes renowned for their sweetness. If you’re seeking to expand your palate, Crete is a well known spot for snails which are served in an aromatic concoction of flavours after being boiled, fried or skilleted to perfection. For those with a sweet tooth, Kos has the perfect dish for you. Marmarites are a traditional pancake often served with honey and are well worth seeking out. Every Greek island is also a hub for fresh seafood, like octopus, squid, lobster and prawns, due to their locations in the Ionian, Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. Whatever takes your fancy, you can dine in luxury in a myriad of restaurants and tavernas alongside unforgettable views.

Superb Hotels

There’s no better way to spend your last-minute Greece holiday than by staying in a luxury hotel or resort. Whether you’re travelling as a family seeking somewhere child-friendly, or a couple wanting adult-only bliss, the Greek islands promise to fulfill all your needs. Enjoy total relaxation, spending seven, 10 or even 14 nights being completely taken care of by dedicated staff as you catch some rays by the swimming pool, soak in the hot tub or unwind on the beach. There’s also serene spas, wellness facilities, fitness centres, yoga, pilates and mindfulness classes to enjoy, as well as unparalleled wining and dining destinations. Opt for an all-inclusive package to indulge guilt free in a plethora of divine restaurants that serve local and international fare. By choosing a Greek island for your last-minute summer escape, you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping scenery and architecture, like the white-washed cubed buildings that are synonymous with holidays in Mykonos

“A last-minute holiday to the Greek islands will not only leave you with an abundance of memories but will ensure you travel home feeling well and truly rejuvenated.

“After the everyday grind of work and school runs, everyone needs a holiday to look forward to and there’s nowhere better than Greece. It’s a short-haul flight away, consistently sunny and there’s something to suit everyone’s budget. What more could you ask for?

“Spend your summer holiday lounging on a golden beach, splashing in crystal-clear waters, dining on delicious fare and having a blast with your loved ones. Whether it's on land or at sea, the Greek islands promise to wow you with their stunning beauty, ancient wonders and warm hospitality.

“Choose from the lush emerald isle of Crete, the iconic white and blue-domed skyline of Santorini, the mythical towns of Rhodes and more, with luxury hotels to suit family getaways and couples retreats.”

Grecotel LUXME Kos

Enjoy a taste of the finer things in life when you stay in the 5-star Grecotel LUXME Kos. This sensational Greek getaway promises maximum relaxation and bliss as well as unrivalled thrills in the swimming pools, sports courts and on the adjoining white-sand beach. Slip into a state of serenity in the whirlpool or enjoy a visit to the magnificent spa, where you’ll find a steam bath and sauna. Local Greek and Mediterranean delicacies await in the variety of restaurants, including freshly-caught lobster.

Check out the Grecotel LUXME Kos

Grecotel Eva Palace at Kommeno Peninsula, Corfu

Escape to one of Corfu’s finest resorts for an unforgettable getaway. With stunning views of the island and aquamarine waters, you’ll be in awe of the natural beauty this destination oozes. Enjoy a beachfront location that makes it easy to soak up the sun or get active with some water sports. Read a book or sip on a cocktail by the swimming pool before heading to the al fresco restaurant that boasts an incredible array of international cuisines.

Check out the Grecotel Eva Palace at Kommeno Peninsula, Corfu

SENTIDO Apollo Palace, Corfu

Utter splendour awaits on the island of Corfu. The SENTIDO Apollo Palace is a hive of tranquility, entertainment and wellness, with something fun for every age. Children will be wowed by the kids’ club, mini golf course and evening discos where they can dance to their favourite songs, while adults can relax in the sumptuous spa or adult-only zone. Take part in a yoga class, enjoy a beverage at the pool bar or visit the private beachfront.

Check out SENTIDO Apollo Palace, Corfu

Lindos Village Resort & Spa, Rhodes

Traditional Greek white-washed and blue-domed architecture is a feature of this 5-star resort in Rhodes. Lush greenery surrounds you as you relax in the glorious Mediterranean sunshine, while the beach is only a stone’s throw away for a day of water sports fun. Promising unparalleled wellness activities, you can take part in yoga, pilates and aerobics or tee off on the nearby golf course. Couples seeking uninterrupted serenity and romance will adore this adult-only haven on a magical Greek island.

Check out Lindos Village Resort & Spa, Rhodes

Elounda Mare Relais Chateaux Hotel, Crete

Situated on the postcard-perfect coast of Crete, this 5-star luxury haven promises unadulterated fun for the whole family. You’ll find a kids’ swimming pool equipped with slides for magical moments, as well as a private Blue Flag-rated beach. Soak up the sun, read a book and enjoy a refreshing beverage or feel the thrill of scuba diving through the crystal-clear water. A variety of restaurants boast mouthwatering cuisines, including authentic Cretan, Greek and Italian dishes for a real taste of the Mediterranean.

Check out Elounda Mare Relais Chateaux Hotel, Crete

Angsana Corfu

Venture to the enchanting resort of Benities for an unforgettable stay in the 5-star Angsana Corfu. Luxury oozes from this hotel, where you’ll find spacious bedrooms, with views of Benities Bay and the mountain range. The nearby Achilleion Palace is a superb site of Corfu’s history and culture, while the on-site amenities will keep the whole family entertained. Enjoy yoga and water sports on the beach before experiencing a culinary explosion of flavour in the bars and restaurants.

Check out Angsana Corfu